HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019 05-01 Maplewood police, community remembers fallen officer on anniversary of his death KSTP
Maplewood Police, community remembers fallen
officer on anniversary of his death
May 01, 2019 11:52 AM
Maplewood police on Wednesday honored one of their own killed in the line of duty.
Sgt. Joseph Bergeron was killed by a carjacking suspect on May 1, 2010.
Bergeron served with the Maplewood Police Department for 26 years. A permanent memorial at
the department stands to honor him.
Bergeron's niece, Ashley, is now a Maplewood Police officer, and said it's tough following in her
uncle's path.
“Coming into an agency where Joe left such an important legacy was extremely intimidating.
Joe was a well-liked, respective sergeant within the department and was also respected and
loved by his community. Following in these footsteps and stepping into his shoes has been no
less than impossible,” said Officer Ashley Bergeron.
Each year, Bergeron’s family, fellow officers and community members gather outside the
Maplewood Police Department in front of his memorial to remember and honor him.
Those who knew Bergeron remembered him as someone always willing to help others.
This year, for the first time, the department gave out the “Sergeant Joseph Bergeron Community
Service Award."
Recently retired officer, Alesia Metry, and community member, James Edens, were awarded the
honor. Edens maintains the department’s fleets.
“What is important to many of us is not only that we solemnly remember Joe's dedication and
that he made the ultimate sacrifice, but we also remember who he was, what he believed in and
what he stood for. In my conversations with police staff and those who knew him, Sgt. Bergeron
was the epitome of community servant. A person who believed in serving others and
contributing to a cause that was greater than himself,” said Maplewood Police Chief Scott
Nadeau.
Bergeron was 49 years old when he died. He left behind a wife and twin teenage daughters.